Clothing retailer Jeanswest has collapsed, announcing that its more than 90 stores across Australia will close in the coming months.
Jeanswest has four outlets in Tasmania, including at Hobart’s Eastlands and Channel Court shopping centres and in the Launceston and Burnie CBDs.
Administrators from Pitcher Partners confirmed on Wednesday that the brand would be shutting down, citing persistent challenges in Australia’s retail landscape.
“The owners have done everything they can to keep Jeanswest going, but market conditions mean sustaining bricks-and-mortar stores is not viable and unlikely to improve,” administrator Lindsay Bainbridge said in a statement.
The closure puts more than 600 employees out of work nationwide as the retailer ends its Australian operations.
It marks the second major setback for the brand, which previously entered administration in January 2020 before being rescued by Hong Kong business Harbour Guidance.
“They deeply regret the impact of store closures on their team members and their customers and we will be working now with teams across the country,” Bainbridge added.
Shoppers can expect significant discounts soon, with administrators confirming all stock at Jeanswest stores will go on sale shortly.
The retailer is currently already promoting a mid-season sale.
